Endocrine and Head and Neck Surgery
Overview
The thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland at the centre of the neck and the parathyroid glands, four tiny, pea-sized glands, are significant components of the endocrine system. These glands are responsible for the production of chemical messengers (hormones), which help regulate the body. The thyroid serves as a key component in metabolism, ensuring a healthy metabolic rate, while the parathyroid glands control the amount of calcium in the bloodstream and bones.
Thyroidectomy
A thyroidectomy is the surgical resection of the entire thyroid gland or a portion of it. The thyroid gland secretes hormones that regulate every aspect of metabolism, including heart rate and the rate at which the body burns calories.
The surgical procedure involves creating an incision in the centre of the neck within a crease, which helps conceal the mark of the incision as the area heals. Depending on the condition, either a portion or the entire thyroid may be surgically removed.
Neck Dissection
Neck dissection is a surgical procedure performed to remove all the cancerous lymph nodes from the neck. This is often necessary in cases of head and neck cancers, as it helps determine the extent to which the cancer has spread.
Parathyroidectomy
A parathyroidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the parathyroid glands in order to treat hyperparathyroidism, a condition in which the parathyroid glands produce excessive parathyroid hormone. High levels of parathyroid hormone lead to an increase in blood calcium levels, which in turn increases the risk of bone pain, lethargy, and kidney stones.
Adrenalectomy
Adrenalectomy, the surgical removal of the adrenal gland(s), provides significant relief to patients. Whether it's to resolve benign or malignant adrenal gland tumours or when the glands produce hormones in excess, this surgery offers a path to better health. It can be done minimally invasively or openly, depending on the type of tumour and its size.
FAQ
The rewards of the practice of safe surgery are very gratifying.
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